The investigators are conducting a randomized clinical trial of our new web-based version of the CBT4CBT (Computer Based Training for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) program specifically designed for alcohol to evaluate its effectiveness relative to standard outpatient counseling at the Substance Abuse Treatment Unit (SATU). The computer-based training program (CBT4CBT) focuses on teaching basic coping skills, presenting examples of effective use of coping skills in a number of realistic situations in video form, and providing opportunities for patients to practice and review new skills while receiving substance abuse treatment.
Ninety alcohol using individuals seeking treatment at the Substance Abuse Treatment Unit (SATU) of the Connecticut Mental Health Center will be randomized to (1) standard outpatient counseling at SATU (typically consisting of weekly group counseling), (2) standard outpatient counseling plus web-based CBT, or (3) web-based CBT4CBT with minimal clinical monitoring. Treatments will be delivered over an 8-week period with a six-month follow-up after termination of the study treatments. The primary outcome measures will be reduction in alcohol use (frequency of alcohol use by time, confirmed by urine toxicology screens and breathalyzers). Secondary outcomes will include treatment utilization and cost, several measures intended to detect whether web-based CBT4CBT retains key characteristics of traditional clinician-administered CBT (e.g., acquisition of coping skills, use of change strategies), participant characteristics which will be evaluated as potential moderators of outcome, as well as participant satisfaction and treatment credibility.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
68
Treatment normally offered at this clinic which could include individual or group alcohol and drug counseling sessions one time per week lasting one hour each time.
Subjects work with a computerized program that teaches skills for stopping alcohol and drug use and increasing coping skills. Computerized sessions are one time per week and last about one hour per session. Plus TAU
Subjects work with a computerized program that teaches skills for stopping alcohol and drug use and increasing coping skills. Computerized sessions are one time per week and last about one hour per session. Plus 10 minute check in with clinician.
Substance Abuse Treatment Unit (SATU)
New Haven, Connecticut, United States
Substance Abuse Treatment Unit (SATU)
New Haven, Connecticut, United States
Reduction in alcohol use
Time frame: 8 weeks
Subjects ability to demonstrate coping skills through a computerized role-playing evaluation and homework
Time frame: 8 weeks
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